Ask the Expert: What's the proper way to extend oil drain intervals?

June 3, 2013
Results from an oil analysis can help you determine an optimum drain interval based on your fleet's engines, service requirements and other factors.

Q: What's the proper way to extend oil drain intervals?

A: We suggest you follow OEM recommendations regarding the recommended oil drain interval for your engines. Results from an oil analysis can help you determine an optimum drain interval based on your fleet's engines, service requirements and other factors.

To illustrate, we had a customer who wanted to extend its drains. We were concerned it was extending too far. We conducted oil analysis for a year to arrive at the optimum drain interval given the climate, the fleet and the extreme service. As a result, the customer was able to extend its oil drain interval by 50 percent, providing a significant cost savings and benefit to the environment.

About the Author

Rodney Walker | Technical Director, Safety-Kleen Systems

Engine Oil Expert for Ask the Expert on VehicleServicePros.com.

Technical Director, Safety-Kleen Systems and producer of EcoPower, the eco-friendly engine oil.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tesla service, repair, and diagnostics

Keep update-to-date on how to maintain your customer's Tesla vehicles.

Tool Review: Ascot Supply 3/4" Drive 600 ft-lbs Split Beam Torque Wrench, No. 168-00600

Reviewed by Eric Moore, manager at DeMary Truck in Columbus, Ohio.

Diagnosing an engine misfire

Recognizing a misfire is the easy part; the challenge is determining its cause.

The ‘Iron Giant’

This technician spent two and half years putting together his ‘giant’ of a toolbox setup.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!